Robert "Bob" W. Miller

Robert “Bob” W. Miller, 79, of Knox, NY, passed away on September 11, 2026.

Bob lived a life filled with curiosity, creativity, hard work, and a genuine love for the things that brought joy to himself and those around him. He will be remembered not only for all that he accomplished, but for the unique personality, humor, generosity, and enthusiasm he brought to everything he did.

Bob graduated from Siena College before serving in the United States Army. Following his military service, he began what would become a 30-year career as an auditor with the New York State Comptroller’s Office.

Bob had a lifelong love of history and vintage cars. From Volkswagens, Model T Fords to micro-cars, he enjoyed the history, character, and craftsmanship of these classic automobiles. Bob’s love of Volkswagens began during his childhood, growing up in a large family that traveled in a Volkswagen Bus. That early connection stayed with him throughout his life and grew into a lifelong appreciation for Volkswagen vehicles. Over the years, his collection grew to nearly 25 vehicles, inspiring him to build multiple garages on his property to house his beloved automobiles. His most recently built garage became affectionately known as his “museum,” filled not only with his impressive collection of cars, but also with the many vintage collectibles and memorabilia he had gathered over the years.

Among his most memorable vehicles was his BMW Isetta, a distinctive little car that brought smiles wherever it went. He especially enjoyed driving it in local parades, much to the delight of parade-goers. He also owned a Volkswagen Bus ambulance, which became a favorite destination for many, including his great-grandnieces, who loved turning it into their own little hospital. These moments brought a special kind of joy to his collection, creating memories that his family and friends will treasure for years to come. His most recent acquisition, a Franklin, was a particular source of excitement and pride.

His love of building and creating extended far beyond automobiles. Bob was an avid do-it-yourselfer who could turn his ideas into reality. One of his proudest accomplishments was building his own home, a testament to his determination, ingenuity, and willingness to tackle a challenge. He was always ready to lend his time, knowledge, and skills to family and friends, assisting with countless projects over the years. Whether he was building, repairing, or figuring out how to make something work, he took great satisfaction in doing things with his own hands and helping others along the way.

Perhaps one of Bob’s greatest legacies was the impact he had on others. He was a tremendous mentor to so many people throughout his life, generously sharing his knowledge, experience, time, and encouragement. He had a natural ability to teach, guide, and inspire others, always willing to lend a helping hand or offer advice. The lives he touched through his mentorship will carry his influence forward, and his passing will be a tremendous loss to the many people who looked to him for guidance, friendship, and support.

Bob or Uncle Bob to many, will also be remembered for his unmistakable, larger-than-life laugh—one that could be recognized from a distance and often announced his presence before he even entered the room. His laughter was infectious and reflected his wonderful sense of humor and the joy he found in life. It is a sound his family and friends will deeply miss, but will always remember.

Bob is survived by his siblings, Sr. Maria Goretti, John (Barbara), Thomas (Irene), Joseph (Rechelle), Paul Michael (Ann), Theresa, former sister in-law Lynn Miller, and many cousins, nieces, nephews, grandnieces, grandnephews, great-grandnieces, and great-grandnephews, along with countless friends who became like family over the years. He was preceded in death by his parents Harold and Helen Miller, his sister Sr. Anastasia Mary and brother Edward “Jim” Miller, and brother-in-law Siegmar Tessarzik.

The family would like to express their sincere gratitude to Greg Stewart for the care and compassion he showed Bob throughout his illness. His kindness, patience and support were a blessing.

A celebration of life will take place on Friday, September 18, 2026 from 5-8 pm at Carmen Fire Department, 2435 Hamburg Street, Schenectady, NY 12303. There will be a Catholic Mass at St. Edward the Confessor Church, 569 Clifton Park Road, Clifton Park, NY 12065 on Saturday, September 19, 2026 at 10 am. Interment will occur at a later date at the Gerald B.H. Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery in Schuylerville.

In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Bob may be made to Little Sisters of the Poor, 1365 Enfield St. Enfield, CT 06082.

Bob will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and the many people whose lives he touched. His big laugh, his stories, his love of a good project, and his willingness to share his knowledge and lend a helping hand will not soon be forgotten. The cars and collectibles he treasured may remain, but the greatest things Bob leaves behind are the memories he created and the people he helped along the way. And remember, “It doesn’t get any better than this.”

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